Interior Trade Fair: Decorex 2026: How Craftsmanship, Outdoor Living and AI Are Reshaping Luxury Interiors

Decorex 2026 will bring the high-end interior design community together at Olympia London from 11–14 October, as the sector responds to changing patterns of living, renewed interest in craftsmanship and the accelerating influence of technology.

N7 Collection by Nth Degree Clerkenwell

For an industry accustomed to continually redefining luxury, the themes emerging around this year's Decorex point towards a significant shift in what premium interiors are expected to deliver. Rather than simply focusing on visual sophistication, designers and brands are increasingly responding to demand for interiors that feel authentic, tactile, individual and connected to the way people actually live.

Decorex, which has been a fixture in the high-end interior design calendar for nearly five decades, will bring together more than 280 exhibiting international brands, alongside a programme of talks, workshops and demonstrations. The organisers say the event connects more than 12,500 design professionals, including designers, architects, retailers, buyers and hoteliers.

The 2026 edition also comes at an important moment for its venue. Olympia London has undergone a £1.3 billion redevelopment, while Decorex has secured a new two-year commitment to remain at the West London destination. Olympia says the expanded hospitality, restaurants and social spaces are expected to encourage visitors to spend more time at the venue and continue business conversations beyond the exhibition floor.

From decoration to experience

One of the clearest developments within contemporary interiors is the move away from the idea that luxury is necessarily synonymous with sleekness, restraint and pristine minimalism.

Instead, designers are increasingly exploring materiality, tactility and individuality. Wood, stone, cork, natural fibres, woven fabrics, plaster and limewash finishes are being used to create environments with greater depth and sensory appeal.

This reflects a wider consumer interest in interiors that feel lived-in rather than showroom-perfect. For the premium design market, it also creates opportunities for specialist manufacturers, artisans and makers whose products can offer something distinctive that is difficult to replicate through mass production.

Decorex's Making Spaces programme, where master artisans demonstrate their skills, is particularly relevant to this movement. Alongside the commercial business of sourcing products, craftsmanship itself has become part of the design experience.

The result is a more nuanced definition of luxury: not simply the cost or exclusivity of an object, but the quality of its materials, the skill involved in producing it and the story behind its creation.

Outdoor living becomes an extension of the home

The growing sophistication of outdoor living is another important indicator of how the interiors market is evolving.

Decorex is highlighting 10 luxury outdoor furniture brands, including Nth Degree Clerkenwell, Barbacoa, Ligne Roset, Capital Garden Products, Maison Gatti, Modus Fireplaces, Heritage Handmade Garden Collections, OKA, Vincent Sheppard and Indian Ocean.

The development reflects a broader blurring of the boundary between indoor and outdoor environments. Gardens, terraces, balconies and rooftops are increasingly being conceived as extensions of the home — spaces for dining, entertaining, working and relaxing rather than simply areas used during good weather.

This is creating a new design challenge. Outdoor furniture increasingly needs to provide the comfort, sophistication and visual coherence traditionally associated with interiors, while also meeting the practical demands of changing weather conditions and outdoor use.

Nth Degree, for example, describes the current direction as creating outdoor spaces that feel as considered and characterful as the interiors they adjoin, with attention to tactile fabrics, natural materials and relaxed silhouettes.

The implications extend beyond residential design. Hotels, restaurants and other hospitality businesses are also investing in outdoor environments as part of the overall customer experience.

In this respect, outdoor furniture is moving from being a peripheral category towards becoming an increasingly integrated part of the luxury interiors market.

British lighting highlights the value of making

Lighting provides another example of the continuing importance of specialist craftsmanship.

Nine British lighting brands highlighted by Decorex — Original BTC, Soho Lighting & Co., Corston Architectural Detail, Rothschild & Bickers, Haslam West, Porta Romana, Heathfield, Kansa Lighting and Tigermoth Lighting — demonstrate the breadth of approaches being taken within the sector.

The emphasis is not simply on illumination, but on lighting as an architectural and decorative component capable of influencing atmosphere, colour, texture and spatial perception.

Rothschild & Bickers, for example, is using Decorex to present new handcrafted lighting collections combining British craftsmanship, glassmaking and new finishes. Its exhibition stand itself explores how colour, wallpaper, pattern and lighting can work together within layered interiors.

This illustrates an important commercial distinction in the premium market: lighting is increasingly being treated as a design statement rather than a purely functional specification.

The return of maximalism

After years in which minimalist interiors dominated much of the design conversation, maximalism is returning — but in a more controlled and sophisticated form.

Rather than simply filling rooms with objects and pattern, the emerging approach is based on layering. Jewel colours, contrasting textures, pattern, decorative surfaces and statement furniture are being combined to create interiors with a stronger sense of personality.

This trend also supports the premium design sector because it encourages consumers and specifiers to seek out individual pieces rather than relying on uniform schemes.

Claudia Dorsch's "Chalet Reimagined" design for the Decorex VIP Lounge

The chalet gets a contemporary makeover

The Decorex VIP Lounge provides an illustration of how heritage references are being reinterpreted for contemporary lifestyles.

Designed by London-based international interior designer Claudia Dorsch, the lounge, titled “Back to the Future — The Chalet Reimagined”, explores Alpine heritage through a contemporary lens, incorporating references to the glamour and decadence of the 1970s Italian ski scene.

The concept moves away from the traditional perception of the chalet as an exclusively winter environment. Instead, it considers the chalet as a year-round space, combining timber, fire, craftsmanship and communal rituals with contemporary materials and aesthetics.

This is significant beyond the installation itself. The luxury chalet market has become an influential area of residential design, particularly as high-end clients increasingly expect second homes and hospitality environments to offer the same level of individuality and design sophistication as their principal residences.

Dorsch's concept also reinforces the growing importance of experience-led design — creating environments that encourage people to stay, socialise and interact rather than simply admire individual products.

Botanical art adds another layer of craftsmanship

Deorex 2026 is also collaborating with Norfolk-based botanical artist Claire Coles who creates luxury wallpaper murals using a combination of vintage papers, gold leaf, faux leather, hand painting and freehand embroidery. Her Decorex design brings together deep greens, blues and warm rust shades, with hand-painted elements, vintage papers and suede appliqué.

Her work is particularly relevant to the current design direction because it combines traditional decorative techniques with contemporary scale and application.

The result is a form of craft-led surface design in which wallpaper becomes an immersive artwork rather than simply a background finish.

This points towards another important development within the premium interiors market: the increasing demand for bespoke and highly individual surfaces capable of giving a project a distinctive identity.

AI versus the handmade — or AI alongside it?

Perhaps the most consequential change facing the industry is the growing influence of artificial intelligence.

AI is now being incorporated into areas such as mood-board development, space planning, material selection, visualisation and trend analysis. For designers, these technologies can potentially accelerate early-stage development and enable multiple concepts to be explored rapidly.

But the increasing use of AI also throws the value of human craftsmanship into sharper relief.

The same design landscape that is embracing algorithmic tools is simultaneously placing greater emphasis on handmade ceramics, woven textiles, artisan finishes, hand-painted murals and individually crafted lighting.

Rather than necessarily representing opposing forces, technology and craftsmanship could become complementary parts of the design process. AI can assist with ideation, visualisation and efficiency, while skilled makers provide the physical, tactile and cultural qualities that technology cannot reproduce in the same way.

Decorex's combination of technology-focused conversations with live demonstrations by master artisans reflects this broader industry dialogue.

A softer, warmer colour direction

Colour trends for 2026 also reflect the broader desire for warmth and calm.

Sand, vanilla, clay and earthy tones are emerging alongside richer greens, blues and rust shades. Pantone's Cloud Dancer, a soft off-white with a subtle vanilla quality, also fits into the wider movement towards quieter, more natural palettes.

However, the return of warmer neutrals does not necessarily signal another period of minimalism. Instead, neutral backgrounds can provide a foundation for stronger patterns, decorative surfaces, statement lighting and richly textured furnishings.

The emerging approach is therefore less about eliminating visual stimulation and more about controlling the relationship between colour, texture and pattern.

Decorex as a barometer of the luxury interiors market

Taken together, the themes emerging from Decorex 2026 reveal an industry negotiating several seemingly contradictory forces.

Technology is advancing rapidly, yet craftsmanship is becoming more commercially and culturally significant. Minimalism is giving way to greater decoration, while natural materials are replacing some of the slickness associated with contemporary interiors. Outdoor spaces are becoming more sophisticated, while the distinction between residential and hospitality design continues to blur.

These developments suggest that the next phase of luxury interiors will be defined less by a single dominant aesthetic and more by layering — of materials, technologies, craftsmanship, heritage and personal expression.

As Sam Fisher puts it: “2026 is about pushing boundaries, and Decorex will continue to lead the conversation.”

With its combination of international brands, specialist makers, design talks, workshops and immersive installations, Decorex 2026 will offer an opportunity to assess not simply what is new in interiors, but where the business of high-end design is heading next.

Images: Decorex 2026

London Event: Decorative Fair Spring Edition to Celebrate Beatrix Potter’s 160th Anniversary with Special Mr. McGregor Display

As Britain prepares to celebrate the 160th anniversary of the birth of beloved author, illustrator and conservationist Beatrix Potter, a summer-long programme of exhibitions, public art installations and heritage events will honour the enduring legacy of one of the nation’s most cherished literary figures.

Artwork panel from Fromental's Peter Rabbit™ collection will be featured at the Decorative Fair Spring Edition
from May 12 - 17 2026.

Born on 28 July 1866, Potter remains internationally renowned for her charming “Little Tales”, including The Tale of Peter Rabbit and The Tale of Two Bad Mice. Between 1902 and 1930, she wrote and illustrated 23 original stories celebrated for their detailed observation of the natural world and whimsical anthropomorphic storytelling.

Across the UK throughout summer 2026, organisations and cultural institutions are planning special anniversary events. In the Lake District, celebrations will focus on Potter’s role not only as an author but also as a pioneering conservationist whose work helped preserve much of the region’s landscape.

The National Trust is placing particular emphasis on Hill Top, Potter’s former home in Near Sawrey, where visitors will be able to view a special display featuring the original dollhouse furniture that inspired scenes in The Tale of Two Bad Mice.

Meanwhile, in north-east England, a large-scale public art trail featuring uniquely decorated Peter Rabbit sculptures will run across Newcastle and North Tyneside from 15 July to 14 September 2026. Retailers are also expected to mark the milestone with commemorative merchandise and limited-edition 160th anniversary collections.

One of the most distinctive tributes will form part of the Spring edition of the Decorative Fair Spring Edition 2026, returning to Battersea Park, London, from 12 to 17 May 2026.

Organisers have announced a specially commissioned foyer installation imagining “the perfect potting shed” for Mr. McGregor, the famously irascible gardener from Potter’s stories. The nostalgic display will combine antique garden pieces, vernacular furniture and country-house styling in a collaboration between Fromental and dealer Gilbert Bannerman, descendant of noted garden designers Isabel and Julian Bannerman.

All items featured in the installation will be sourced from exhibitors at the fair and offered for sale. Fromental, celebrated for its hand-painted wallcoverings, will contribute two artwork panels from its Peter Rabbit™ collection to complete the display.

Jenna Burlingham Gallery

Alongside the Beatrix Potter tribute, the Decorative Fair will showcase a broad range of antiques, twentieth-century design, art and decorative objects. New exhibitors this spring include Dodo-Lamberty, specialising in twentieth-century design and Street Art; Modern World Ltd; and Shackleton Fox, known for antique lighting and decorative pieces.

Made in Italy

Returning exhibitors include Antique B•R, Flora Black and Callaghan Fine Art, while recent newcomers attracting attention include Maud Vaughan, Frank Story Ltd, Judith van Helden Fine Art and Punch the Clock, noted for rare examples of twentieth-century decorative arts.

Garden antiques are expected to feature prominently throughout the fair, with dealers offering stone and metal furniture, planters, urns, statuary and decorative garden objects. Visitors will also find a strong selection of vernacular furniture and traditional treen — small handcrafted wooden domestic objects whose name derives from the Old English term meaning “of the tree”.

Organisers say the event will continue its longstanding tradition of bringing together exceptional dealers recognised for sourcing unusual and distinctive pieces, while the Beatrix Potter anniversary display is expected to provide one of the fair’s major highlights.

Images courtesy of Decorative Fair Spring Edition

New Opening: British Brand ILIV Opens New Showroom at Chelsea Harbour Design Centre, London

UK premium interiors fabric brand ILIV has opened a new showroom in London at the Design Centre, Chelsea Harbour, marking a significant step in its expansion within one of the country’s most influential design destinations.

Situated on the fifth floor, the showroom forms part of the recently launched Design Emporium Collective — a curated, multi-brand concept space bringing together a diverse selection of homeware and interiors brands.

The new space will serve as ILIV’s dedicated London hub for its residential collections, positioning the company at the heart of the capital’s design community. The showroom is also expected to strengthen relationships with interior designers and retail partners while supporting the brand’s growing network.

Visitors to the showroom can explore a carefully curated edit of ILIV’s pattern books, full-length fabric displays and a selection of take-away samples. The space showcases the brand’s latest collections, alongside a wide range of plain and textured fabrics, all presented within a design-led environment intended to inspire.

Designers and visitors are invited to explore the new showroom by taking the express lift to the fifth floor of the Design Centre East.

Jason Kenworthy, CEO of ILIV, described the opening as a key milestone for the business. 

“Opening a showroom at Design Centre, Chelsea Harbour is an exciting milestone for ILIV. The Design Emporium Collective provides a wonderful opportunity to showcase our collections in a creative environment while strengthening our relationships with the interior design community,” he said.

ILIV specialises in textiles for both residential and commercial spaces, supported by a global team committed to innovation and quality. The brand focuses closely on detail to help interior design professionals create and transform spaces.

ILIV is part of the SMD Group, founded in 1987 in Lancashire, a region renowned for its rich textile heritage. Since its beginnings as a family-owned business, the SMD Group has evolved into a leading force within the interior textiles market.

Known for its eclectic style, ILIV draws inspiration from archive documents through to contemporary geometric designs, reflecting a versatility that complements both modern and traditional interiors.

Designers' Reaction to Cloud Dancer: Interior Design Industry Split Over Pantone’s Colour of the Year 2026

Pantone’s announcement of Cloud Dancer as its Colour of the Year for 2026 has prompted one of the most polarised reactions from the interiors sector in recent years. The soft, muted white — intended to signal calm, clarity and a collective reset — has instead divided designers over whether the authority on colour has offered meaningful direction or played it overly safe.

Image: Pantone Color Institute™

Some in the industry argue the shade reflects a genuine shift towards simplicity and serenity after a wave of bold, expressive palettes. Others say Cloud Dancer lacks the innovation and energy expected of a Colour of the Year, serving more as a background tone than a trend-defining hue.

Among the most sceptical voices is Emily Butterill, Founder of Glow Lighting, who describes Cloud Dancer as “pleasant and adaptable” but ultimately unlikely to influence major trends.

Glow Lighting - Classic Curved Opal Glass Jules Wall Light

“I don’t see this becoming a major influencing colour of the year,” she said. “It doesn’t push the boundaries of lighting, décor or furniture in a meaningful way. It pairs nicely with soft pastels — something we work with often — but it’s those colours, not the base, that bring personality into a space. For us, Cloud Dancer is supportive rather than standout.”

Butterill’s view echoes that of a wider contingent who feel Pantone has missed an opportunity to capture the mood and momentum of contemporary interiors.

Despite the scepticism, many design-led brands have responded warmly to Pantone’s choice, praising its versatility, purity and quiet elegance.

The Faux Flower Company
Blossoming Bouquet
featuring hand-made and hand-painted artificial
cherry blossom, faux hydrangeas and faux delphiniums

Rachel Dunn, Head of Product at The Faux Flower Company, said Cloud Dancer “feels incredibly aligned” with current consumer preferences. 

“It’s an effortless fit for both contemporary and traditional interiors… a beautifully serene canvas that pairs with absolutely everything,” she said, highlighting its compatibility with natural textures, soft greens and muted pastels.  hand made and hand painted artificial cherry blossom, faux hydrangeas and faux delphiniums

Lakeland Furniture
Flek Dining Chair Natural Cream Fabric & Chrome Leg

Shannon Taylor, Marketing Manager at Lakeland Furniture, also welcomed the choice. “After several years of saturated, expressive colour, there’s something incredibly grounding about a shade that invites clarity and calm,” she said. 

In dining spaces, she added, Cloud Dancer brightens without overwhelming, allowing statement pieces and natural materials to take the lead. Taylor also pointed to Pantone’s wider messaging about balancing digital life with human connection — a theme she feels the colour captures effectively.

For many creatives, Cloud Dancer offers fertile ground for interpretation. 

Burnt Peach
Little Peach Portraits: Colour of the Year Collection

Pia Gill, Founder of Burnt Peach, has already produced a collection inspired by the shade. “It’s light, delicate and beautifully timeless,” she said, adding that its softness enhances the emotional depth of her portraits and helps convey childhood innocence “without distraction”.

Beach House Art
Hand Painted Scallop Shell Art - Natural Background - Natural Frame

Brian MacShane, Creative Director at Beach House Art, sees the hue as reflective of shifting priorities. The shade, he said, “speaks less of wanting more and instead of space — a canvas that invites light, calm and simplicity.”

Paint manufacturers are also noting momentum behind softer whites. 

Thorndown Paints - White Wall Paint inspired by the Egrets found in the wetlands of Somerset, UK

Ben Thornborough, Founder of Thorndown Paints, pointed to similar tones emerging in new ranges. With shades like Egret White already gaining traction, he views Pantone’s selection as timely: “Cloud Dancer feels like the breath of fresh air we all might need.”

CutMy - White Slat Wall Panels
Image by Tanya Cressey Photography

James Bryant, Founder of CutMy, expects the hue’s adaptability to drive uptake across interiors. “This shade has real versatility,” he said. “I expect we’ll see it reflected across surfaces, finishes and architectural details throughout the year.”

Though far from universally embraced, Cloud Dancer has undeniably captured the industry’s attention. Whether seen as a missed opportunity or a much-needed moment of calm, Pantone’s 2026 pick has sparked a lively debate — and, for many, that may be the clearest sign that the colour has already made its mark.

Interior Textiles Trend: ILIV Unveils 2026 Fabric Forecast, Highlighting Warm Hues and Narrative Textures

British fabric producer ILIV, part of the Lancashire-based SMD Group, has released its 2026 Fabric Forecast, pointing to a year shaped by warm tones, tactile finishes and rising demand for personalisation in home interiors.

Known for its eclectic and diverse design approach, ILIV combines trend-led styling with a distinctly British design perspective, supplying textiles across both residential and commercial sectors. The company positions itself as a pioneer in innovative fabric design, drawing on archival inspiration while adapting to contemporary tastes.

ILIV's Tree of Life story in Blush

Announcing the forecast, ILIV’s Design Manager, Debbie Leigh, said there is a growing appetite for fabrics that feel “handcrafted and rooted in story”, characterised by rich weaves, gentle irregularities and heritage-inspired textures. 

“The 2026 trend toward interiors with a narrative means fabrics are more than just a background — they become part of the story,” she said.

Leigh noted that colour palettes are set to shift beyond traditional neutrals. “Bold, up-toned terracotta, red-orange and sun-kissed earth tones will appear in upholstery, curtains and cushions, picking up on the optimism and human-connection cues that designers highlight for 2026.”

ILIV's Pembury Collection.
Steeped in traditional designs and celebrating English heritage, the Pembury fabric collection comprises traditional Jacobean trailing florals, classic checks, vertical stripes and small scale motif prints.
The collection is woven into the deep-rooted cultural heritage of the home counties channelling the quaint villages of Pembury, Windsor and Evesham.

ILIV's Tree of Life Collection in Blush colourway.
Sofa in Perseus Tapestry. 
Cushions left to right: Carwayn Vermillion from Studio Plains; Perseus Tapestry, Odila Cinnabar from House Prints colelction, Amoli Ruby; Blake parchment from Studio Plains

Personalisation will also come to the forefront, with fabrics increasingly used as a medium for individual expression. Printed motifs, tailored upholstery and bespoke accent pieces are expected to gain traction as homeowners seek designs that reflect their identity.

ILIV's Verini Fabric Collection.
Cushions - Middle: Murano Charcoal. Clockwise from top left: Napoli Sea Green, Segoa Sea Green, Segoa Ochre, Summit Seapine, Severino Charcoal.

“In a fast-moving world, texture can help to slow things down by adding gravitas and comfort,” Leigh added. “2026 interiors will feel more rooted, and fabric is central to that.”

Leigh also anticipates the rise of subtle colour gradations within interiors, with soft furnishings layered in tones from the same family. “Think cushion fabrics that pick up the ceiling tone, or curtains that echo wall pigment in a deeper key. Fabrics will quietly enhance a scheme’s depth,” she said.

ILIV's House Print Collection in Coral.
Footstool in Bandhani Coral;  Curtains in Suhani Coral; Blind in Odila Aqua.  Cushions from left to right - Bandhani Coral, Pamina Aqua, Patola Linen, Shani Coral.

Founded in 1987 in Lancashire — a region steeped in textile heritage — the SMD Group has grown from a family-run business into one of the UK’s leading interior fabric suppliers. ILIV, recognised for its eclectic style ranging from archival prints to contemporary geometrics, continues to bridge modern and traditional design influences.

All images courtesy of ILIV.

Interiors Fair: Decorex 2025 Returns to Olympia London this Autumn with Global Celebration of Luxury Interior Design

Decorex, the UK’s premier event for luxury interior design, will return to Olympia London in Kensington from 12 to 15 October 2025, promising an immersive showcase of the very best in international high-end interiors. Featuring more than 280 brands, the event is a hub for cutting-edge design, craftsmanship, innovation and sustainability, drawing designers, architects, and industry professionals from across the globe.

Hyde House - Chelsea Collection

This year’s show will highlight a wide array of high-end furniture, lighting, fabrics, wallcoverings and wallpapers, and bespoke interior pieces, offering attendees a glimpse into the future of luxury living.

Linwood - Maru Songbird in Crimson

British Craftsmanship at the Forefront

Among the standout exhibitors is Sofas & Stuff, a British furniture brand that puts customisation at the core of its ethos. Each piece is handcrafted to order in Lancashire, and at Decorex, the brand will unveil ‘Fabrication’, a new campaign celebrating textiles with its largest-ever fabric release — 211 options including textured linens, rich velvets, subtle checks, and intricate prints.

Sofa & Stuff - 2 Stockbridge 3-Seater Sofa

Also representing British design, Linwood will present new printed linens, velvets, and embroideries, alongside its existing collections known for playful, nature-inspired patterns. 

Meanwhile, Woden & Wyld, experts in bespoke furnishings for the luxury hospitality sector, will display their new custom-made ‘Tosato’ chair featuring Annecy upholstery, along with an accompanying coffee table and decorative boiserie.

Woden & Wyld Poltrona

Longbarn will return with its celebrated range of natural fibre carpets and rugs, made from premium materials such as mohair, combed and felted wool, mercerised cotton, and eucalyptus — all crafted by artisan specialists.

Louise Heighes Studio

Adding artistic flair, Louise Heighes Studio will exhibit sculptural leather wall panels, each inspired by the flowing forms of nature and meticulously crafted from sustainably sourced leather.

International Presence with French and Portuguese Design Highlights

A key focus at Decorex 2025 will be international design excellence, with France and Portugal taking centre stage. The event partners with French Living in Motion, an organisation that promotes French furniture and lifestyle design globally.

Participating French brands include:

Biobject, with over 50 years of experience in contemporary furniture for luxury hotels and homes.

Collinet, established in 1887, will unveil the ‘James’ armchair and ‘Robin’ collection, designed for refined interior and hospitality projects.

CVL Luminaires - Paradoxe Chandelier

CVL Luminaires will launch the bold ‘Paradoxe Chandelier’ alongside its elegant ‘Ruban’ and ‘Carta’ lighting ranges.

Maison Gatti, renowned for its Parisian rattan furniture, will showcase an expansive collection of outdoor and indoor pieces.

Moissonier - Medaillon

MOISSONNIER, cabinetmaking since 1885, presents its new ‘Fontenoy’ bookcase and tartan-accented seating.

Philippe Hurel brings the debut of its ‘Yumi’ armchair and new designer collaborations.

SCHMIDT, bespoke furniture specialists, will launch new kitchen, lighting and interior product ranges.

From Portugal, AIMMP (Portuguese Association of Wood and Furniture Industries) will present leading brands including:

FRATO, a luxury interiors firm.

Alberto Dias Barbosa, LDA, a renowned furniture and kitchen manufacturer.

VISTA ALEGRE S.A., known for elegant porcelain and tableware.

Innovation in Natural Materials and Surface Design

Lithos Design - Tweed Greige backlit wall

Adding to the international flair, Italian marble company Lithos Design will display innovative pieces such as ‘Quinte’, a new marble and metal divider, alongside 3D LED backlit marble wallcoverings, and ‘Odette’, a collection of sculptural marble tables and furniture.

Decorex 2025 promises to be an unmissable event, once again cementing its reputation as the leading platform for discovering luxury interiors, artisanal craftsmanship and global design trends. For those working in interior design, architecture or product manufacturing, Olympia London this October will be the definitive destination.

For more information and tickets, click HERE.  

Interiors Trend: British Fabric House Linwood Launches New Printed Linen Collection Inspired by Nature

British fabric house Linwood has unveiled Maru, a new collection of printed linens designed to reflect the quiet beauty of the natural world. Designed in the UK and printed on 100% linen, the collection draws on archival references and traditional folk motifs from diverse cultures, reinterpreted with a contemporary approach.

Maru Hanging Lengths from Linwood

The Maru collection features seven individual designs, ranging from hand-drawn birds and stylised florals to playful lions and expressive stripes. The designs vary in character—some are intricate and delicate, while others take on a more graphic, bold appearance. Despite their differences, all share a cohesive aesthetic defined by subtle elegance and a semi-organic sensibility.

"Each design in Maru is a celebration of nature, reinterpreted through a modern lens," says Ella Richards, Head of Design at Linwood. "Our studio team has created something fresh and usable – perfect for homes that seek comfort, character, and timeless style."

Suitable for both upholstery and curtains, the linens are available in a colour palette that spans soft, earthy neutrals to stronger, modern tones, offering versatility across interior styles.

Songbird design in Crimson

The first design - Songbird - is already a favourite in Linwood's velvet collection, and is now reimagined on natural linen, offering a fresher, lighter interpretation. Inspired by a fragment of antique crewelwork embroidery and hand-painted in the Linwood studio, it features a lyrical composition of birds, scrolling foliage, and stylised leaves. The updated colour palette enhances the design’s intricate detail, bringing quiet elegance and character to both upholstery and curtains. 

Ima design in Marigold

Ima is inspired by a small-scale trellis pattern found in an Asian folk-art book. It offers a contemporary interpretation of a classic botanical motif. Layered leaves and subtle outlines create texture and rhythm across a natural linen ground. With its elegant scale, this versatile printed linen is ideal for both upholstery and window treatments – bringing refined detail to any interior.

Pipili design in Chickpea

Playful and richly decorative, Pipili is inspired by an antique bedspread. Hand-painted in Linwood's studio, the design features fantastical lions, stylised florals, and starry accents – blending historical charm with a whimsical, storybook spirit. Printed on natural linen and suitable for both curtains and upholstery, it brings colour, character, and a dash of British eccentricity to any interior. 

Yala design in Meadow

Reimagining a classic floral through a modern lens, Yala takes its cue from a hand block-printed bed cover found in Uzbekistan. A simple yet striking motif is reworked into an elegant repeat of sweeping foliage and stylised blooms. Printed on pure linen, Yala brings an elegant, decorative touch to any interior.

Yala Stripe design in Tulip

A playful partner to its namesake floral, Yala Stripe is a painterly stripe printed on natural linen. With hand-drawn character and tonal variation, this design offers balance and rhythm – perfect for layering with florals or using on its own for a more graphic look. Suitable for both upholstery and curtains, it brings a relaxed, contemporary mood to interiors. 

Hinako design in Prune

Hinako is a delicate design that takes inspiration from traditional Asian folk art. While based on a richly detailed, multicoloured original, Hinako has been reimagined in a far simpler form – featuring stylised florals that drift gently across the fabric to evoke a sense of calm and visual balance. 

Talki design in Lagoon

Talki features stylised palm fronds arranged in a rhythmic, vertical stripe. The design balances symmetry with looser, organic elements, creating a sense of movement and structure. Printed on natural linen, it brings a confident graphic edge to both upholstery and curtains. 

With the Maru collection, which is to be launched in September 2025, Linwood continues to expand its portfolio of British-designed textiles, reinforcing its commitment to craftsmanship and design rooted in natural inspiration.

Images courtesy of Linwood.

Interior Design Event: WOW!house Returns to Chelsea Harbour - an Immersive Showcase Bringing Design Concepts to Life

Homeowners often struggle to visualise new design ideas, even when presented with detailed mood boards or high-quality renderings. While these tools are helpful, nothing compares to experiencing a design concept in a real-life setting.

That’s exactly what WOW!house offers. Running this month through to 3 July 2025 at the Design Centre, Chelsea Harbour, London, the event presents an unparalleled opportunity to explore fully-realised interiors brought to life by some of the world’s leading interior designers.

WOW!house features 22 meticulously designed rooms and outdoor spaces, each created in collaboration with globally recognised design brands and suppliers. These full-scale environments—constructed within the Design Avenue—offer visitors a rare chance to walk through, feel, and truly experience design concepts as they would appear in a real home.

Starting at the newly reimagined classical façade, visitors enter a 600-square-metre show-house that offers an immersive exploration of luxury interior design at its finest. 

For those seeking to understand how creative concepts evolve into fully realised spaces, WOW!house serves as the ultimate source of inspiration.

 The Façade, by Darren Price of ADAM Architecture, introduces a refined classical character to this year’s WOW!house. It is accompanied by a beautifully planted Entrance Garden and a lush Garden Terrace, created by garden designer Alexander Hoyle.  The  façade design takes its cues from the elegance of a Georgian townhouse, featuring handmade cornices and heritage-style lighting. However, this is no period pastiche. Instead, it offers a contemporary reinterpretation of classical architecture—“a demonstration that the timeless language of classicism remains as relevant and inspiring today as it was 250 years ago.”

The Entrance Hall, designed by Victoria Davar of Maison Artefact, evokes the grandeur of a French château. To create a sense of scale and drama, Davar raised the ceiling height to five metres and introduced a floating staircase by Excel Stairs, suggesting the presence of an upper floor and rooms beyond.  At the heart of the space are striking sculptural pieces by room sponsor Cox London—the renowned furniture, lighting, and art studio. Taking centre stage is the show-stopping Oak Leaf chandelier, a dramatic focal point that sets the tone for the elegance to follow.

The Fromental Drawing Room, designed by Texas-based Chad Dorsey, exudes the atmosphere of an exclusive private club. A bespoke Strike fireplace, sumptuous furnishings, and a raised ceiling adorned with statement chandeliers set a tone of understated luxury. The space is wrapped in Kiku—a series of exquisite hand-painted panels by room sponsor Fromental—bringing artistry and depth to every surface. Natural motifs are thoughtfully echoed in both the chandeliers and the decorative ceiling wallcovering, creating a harmonious and immersive environment.

The Media Room, designed by Alex Dauley, offers an intimate, cocooning retreat in rich tones of amber, walnut, and antique brass. The atmosphere is relaxed yet refined—both sophisticated and sensuous.   Created in collaboration with sponsor Nucleus, renowned for crafting immersive environments, the space is a sanctuary of texture and contrast. Thoughtfully layered materials highlight the harmony between craftsmanship and comfort, while discreetly integrated surround sound speakers ensure a seamless and enveloping audio experience.

Designer Brigitta Spinocchia Freund, in collaboration with STARK, presents the Curator’s Room—integrating two connecting rooms - that celebrates collectible furniture, fine art, and exceptional artisanal craftsmanship. With a strong focus on female creative talent across generations, the room highlights influential women in art and design from the past, present, and future.  Visually striking and richly tactile, the space is both a tribute and a showcase, honouring the enduring impact of women’s contributions to the creative world.

The Primary Bedroom, designed by Tomef Design, transports visitors into the master suite of a luxurious Venetian hotel, where layers of detail, colour, pattern, and texture come together in perfect harmony.  The palette is rich and inviting, with deep burgundy and ruby tones accented by gold, amber, brown, black, and varied shades of green—evoking a sense of tradition and timeless elegance.  Tommaso Franchi, founder of Tomef Design, has partnered with three of Italy’s most revered heritage brands: renowned fabric house Fortuny, handcrafted rattan specialists Bonacina, and master glassmakers Barovier & Toso. Together, they have created a space that beautifully celebrates the artistry and legacy of Italian craftsmanship.

The adjoining Primary Bathroom by 1508 London is a contemporary sanctuary dedicated to ancient cleansing rituals, sponsored by House of Rohl.

Next door, the Morning Room features soaring ceilings and walls dressed in cotton poplin, hand screen-printed with a trompe-l'œil design inspired by 20th-century garden room treillage.  Interior designer and antique dealer Daniel Slowik has curated an elegant collection of paintings, furniture, and objets d’art sourced from exhibitors at The Treasure House Fair—the prestigious summer art fair founded by Thomas Woodham-Smith and Harry Van der Hoorn, which also sponsors the room.

The Courtyard Room, designed by Emma Sims-Hilditch, is a charming blend of classic elegance and playful practicality. Conceived as a refined back-of-house space, it seamlessly combines form and function with thoughtful features such as a boot room and a dedicated dog room.  Antiques, fine art, decorative wall finishes, and carefully considered architectural details lend the room a sense of history and permanence—creating the impression of a newly built space that feels as though it has always belonged.

The Living Room, designed by interior designer Kelly Hoppen, is a masterclass in tactile sophistication—moody, unexpected, and richly layered. Created in collaboration with lighting specialists and room sponsor Visual Comfort & Co., the space strikes a delicate balance between beauty and function.  Hoppen’s earthy palette of deep browns, terracottas, and soft neutrals evokes a sense of warmth, comfort, and tranquility. Natural materials—such as wood, honed stone, rose quartz, suede, and linen—enhance the room’s grounded elegance. “The room blends asymmetry, history, and personal storytelling,” said Hoppen, bringing a deeply personal narrative to a serene and thoughtfully composed space.

The Library offers an experience that celebrates both the power of silence and the expression of sound. This extraordinary circular space is the creation of Clémence Pirajean Lees and James Michael Lees, founders of the creative direction and design studio Pirajean Lees, in collaboration with the Italian fabric house Dedar, the room’s sponsor.  The room is wrapped in Dedar’s sumptuous wool satin, while the rug—crafted by Jennifer Manners—transforms A440Hz, the musical tuning standard, into a visible and striking pattern, blending artistry with sound.

In contrast, the Dining Room is a vibrant feast of colour inspired by Australia. Designed by Australian-born, London-based designer Peter Mikic and sponsored by Benjamin Moore, a leading manufacturer celebrated for its premium-quality paints, the space bursts with energy and character.  Dominating the room is an abstract artwork by Billy Metcalf, paired with a bespoke round dining table by British furniture brand Kaizen, adorned with semi-precious stones—adding a touch of luxurious craftsmanship to the bold, colourful setting.

The final space at WOW!house is the Garden Terrace, designed by Randle Siddeley and sponsored by McKinnon and Harris. Enclosed by an ornate trellis, meticulously handcrafted for the space by The Garden Trellis Company, the terrace features a striking stone fireplace framed by a lush green wall that serves as a focal point. Surrounding this, intimate seating areas are embraced by vibrant greenery, creating a serene oasis.

One of the best ways to experience WOW!house and deepen one's understanding of the creativity behind the rooms is by joining a complimentary guided tour that goes with the entry ticket. Visitors gain exclusive insights into how world-class designers transformed their concepts into spectacular, fully realised spaces. 

also troughout the month, there is a talks programme featuring many of the WOW!house designers who provide deeper insight into the creative intentions behind the rooms and the collaborative processes that brought the schemes to life.  

For the programme of WOW!Talks, click HERE.

As a dedicated centre for luxury interiors, the Design Centre is celebrated for its distinctive architectural style—modern, elegant, and designed to maximise natural light. Its main building is arranged around a central atrium, creating an inviting and uplifting environment for all who visit.

Originally part of a wider regeneration project transforming Chelsea Harbour from a commercial dock into a vibrant district, the Design Centre has become an international destination for sourcing the finest interior products and exploring the latest design trends. It is widely recognised as one of the country's if not the world’s foremost design destinations.

All images by Lucia Carpio.